What's the difference between simple, advanced and qualified signatures?

Question

I keep hearing about simple, advanced and qualified signatures. What's the practical difference, and which one should I pick for my documents?

Équipe Certyneo · Accepted Answer

These three levels come from the EU eIDAS regulation: Simple signature (SES) : the fastest, ideal for everyday low risk documents (quotes, purchase orders, internal attestations). Advanced signature (AES) : adds stronger signer identity verification (e.g. an SMS code) and a firm link between the signer and the document. Recommended for commercial, HR or lease contracts. Qualified signature (QES) : the highest level, the legal equivalent of a handwritten signature, with identity verification by a qualified provider. Required for certain sensitive deeds. In practice, the advanced signature covers the vast majority of business needs. You choose the level when preparing the envelope.

What's the difference between simple, advanced and qualified signatures?

What's the difference between simple, advanced and qualified signatures?

1 answer